Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes Recipe - A Sweet and Savory Delight from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes is a delicious and unique side dish that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tartness of cherries. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

History

The exact origins of Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes are unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States. This dish combines traditional sweet potato casserole with a twist of tart cherries, creating a flavorful and colorful dish.

Ingredients

3.5 lb (1.59 kg) of sweet potatoes, canned or fresh
1 lb (454 g) of drained tart cherries
1 tbsp of butter or margarine
0.67 cup of firmly packed brown sugar
0.25 cup of granulated sugar
1.5 tsp of salt
1 cup of water
4 tbsp of butter or regular margarine
0.5 cup of orange juice
0.5 lb (227 g) of marshmallows

How to prepare

If using raw sweet potatoes, peel and cut into slices 0.5 to 0.75 inches thick. If using canned sweet potatoes, drain them before cooking.
Place the sweet potatoes in a saucepan and add 1 cup of water. Cook until tender.
Grease a 9 x 13 x 2 inches baking pan with 1 tbsp of butter. Add the sweet potatoes and cherries.
In a separate saucepan, combine the remaining ingredients (except the marshmallows) and cook until you have a thin syrup.
Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes and cherries.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes or until the syrup thickens.
Just before serving, top with marshmallows and return to the oven to brown.

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Substitute the cherries with cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the sweet potatoes until they are tender but not mushy.

- Drain the cherries well before adding them to the dish to prevent excess liquid.

- Be sure to top the dish with marshmallows just before serving to ensure they are fresh and gooey.

Serving Suggestions

Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can be served as a side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham. It pairs well with green beans, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Baking, boiling, and simmering are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used instead of margarine.

- Fresh sweet potatoes can be used instead of canned.

- Honey can be used instead of brown sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add the marshmallows just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes in a decorative baking dish and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with roasted meats, green vegetables, and cranberry sauce. It also goes well with a glass of sparkling cider or white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains margarine, which may contain dairy. It also contains marshmallows, which may contain gelatin.

Summary

Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes is a moderately high-calorie dish that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes many years ago. It was during a visit to my dear friend Martha's house, who always had the most delicious and unique dishes to share. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of sweet potatoes and cherries filled the air, and I knew I had to learn how to make this dish.

Martha greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, leading me to the kitchen where she was busy peeling and slicing sweet potatoes. She explained that this recipe was a family favorite, passed down from her great-grandmother who had a knack for creating comforting and flavorful dishes. I watched closely as Martha prepared the ingredients, adding layers of sweet potatoes, cherries, and a sweet cream mixture into a baking dish.

As the dish baked in the oven, Martha shared stories of her great-grandmother and how she would spend hours in the kitchen, creating meals that brought joy and comfort to her family. She spoke of the love and dedication that went into each dish, and how those recipes had been treasured and passed down through the generations.

After the Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes had finished baking, Martha served me a generous portion, the sweet and savory flavors mingling together in a delightful harmony. With each bite, I could taste the love and history that went into this dish, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it for my own family.

Martha graciously shared the recipe with me, guiding me through each step and offering tips and tricks along the way. I spent hours in my own kitchen, peeling and slicing sweet potatoes, layering them with cherries and the sweet cream mixture just as Martha had shown me. As the dish baked in the oven, the familiar aroma filled my home, bringing back memories of my time spent in Martha's kitchen.

When the Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes were finally ready, I served them to my family with pride, watching as they took their first bites with eager anticipation. The dish was a hit, with everyone raving about the unique combination of flavors and the comforting warmth it brought to our table.

Over the years, I have continued to make this recipe for Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, each time remembering the special moment when I first learned how to make it. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of delicious and comforting meals that bring joy and warmth to those who enjoy them.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that day in Martha's kitchen and the journey that led me to discover this wonderful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and connections that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and through recipes like this one, I have found a way to connect with others and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from Martha and her family, and for the recipes that have been shared with me over the years. The Cherried Scalloped Sweet Potatoes will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and love that can be found in a simple dish made with care and dedication.